Dovid HaMelech tells us in Tehilim (49:18) כִּי לֹא בְמוֹתוֹ יִקַּח הַכֹּל, when you die you won't take everything with you. The Gerrer Rebbe the Beis Yisroel asks, the word "everything" implies that some things you will take with you after death. but not everything.

This being the case, the pasuk cannot be referring to material objects, since you can't take "any" of your material items with you. Therefore he deduces that Dovid HaMelech is telling us we can't even take all our mitzvos with us. This seems strange. Why can't we take all of our mitzvos with us to Olam Haba? Why are they left behind in the material world?

The Gerrer Rebbe says the next few words of the pasuk reveal the answer. לֹא יֵרֵד אַחֲרָיו כְּבוֹדוֹ, his honor will not follow him to the world of truth, the eternal world. Any mitzva that was done for the sake of Kavod has no place in Shamayim, and will not go with you. These mitzvos will be left behind in the world that reveres Kavod. A world suited for them. You did it for the sake of benefiting in the material world, and in the material world they will remain forever.

]]>Fri, 17 Mar 2017 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 139: Hashem Is Here, Hashem Is Therehttp://revach.net/article.php?id=4214
http://revach.net/article.php?id=4214"Im Esak Shamayim Sham Ata V'Atzia She'ol Hineka", If I ascend up to heaven, you are there. If I make my bed in the depths of She'ol, behold, you are here (Tehilim 139:8). Simply put this means there is no escape from Hashem. Neither in the heavens above nor in the depths below.

The Meforshim point to the difference between the word "Sham" which means "there" and "Hineka" which means "here". If a person's spirit tells him he is soaring he should know Hashem is not there, He is further away. Hashem does not dwell among the haughty. But if a person's spirit is humble and down in the depths of humility then Hashem is Hineka, right alongside you.

Another pshat is that if a person truly lifts himself to great heights he can never reach Hashem. There is always further to go. Just like a parent holding a candy just beyond the outstretched hands of a child learning to walk, Hashem always places himself just in the distance so that we strive to catch him and keep raising ourselves. But when we sink to the depth Hashem does no such thing. He comes down all the way to us to lift us up. During our worst times we can take solace that Hashem is right there with us.
]]>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim Perek 38: The Rizhiner Rebbe - It's The Money Not The Principlehttp://revach.net/article.php?id=3982
http://revach.net/article.php?id=3982

When we have a fight over money we often claim that we are not fighting over the money but rather the principle. It is beneath us to squabble over something so trivial for the sake of greed, we try to convince ourselves and the whole world. But nobody is buying it as we all know it is about the money.

Dovid HaMelech alludes to this human fallibility in Tehilim (38:19), "Ki Avoni Agid Edag MeiChatosi", literally meaning, for I will declare my iniquity I will be worried over my sin. B'Derech Drush, the Rizhiner Rebbe explains as follows. A person is terribly worried over his parnassa. When someone asks him why looks so terrible he is embarrassed to admit that he is troubled by earthly matters so he says that he is troubled over his aveiros, his yiras shamayim, his avodas Hashem, etc.

"Ki Avoni", my aveira is, says Dovid HaMelech. "Agid Edag MeiChatosi", that I tell people that I am worried about my aveiros, as if I am the spiritual person that I am not.

Please visit the new Revach L'Tefila site (www.revach.net/tefila) where can you request tehilim be said for you, while you say for others.

]]>Thu, 06 Aug 2009 03:00:00 -0700 Tehilim Perek 37: Chasam Sofer - A Way To Make Sure Both You And The Tzadik Both Have What To "Eat"http://revach.net/article.php?id=3698
http://revach.net/article.php?id=3698"Na'ar Hayisi Gam Zakanti V'Lo Ra'isi Tzadik Ne'ezav V'Zaro Mivakesh Lachem", I have been young, and I am now old, yet have I not seen the Tzadik forsaken Tehilim (37:25). The Chasam Sofer explains this allegorically as follows. I was was a Na'ar which means empty. I was empty of all wisdom. Gam Zakanti, but nevertheless I am wise like someone who learns all day. Why? V'Lo Ra'isi Tzaddik Ne'ezav, after I saw a tzaddik he was never poor anymore since I gave him food and sustenance. I therefore became his partner in his torah which is half mine. The zchus of supporting someone sitting and learning earns you a portion of their torah. In Shamayim you will know that torah as if you have learned it yourself.
]]>Thu, 30 Apr 2009 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim 36: Don't Confuse Light From Dark - Rav Yehonoson Eibushitz, Rav Shamshon Raphael Hirsch, Chasam Soferhttp://revach.net/article.php?id=3377
http://revach.net/article.php?id=3377In
Perek 36 Dovid HaMelech tells us the strategy of the Yetzer Hara which
is all based on deception. The first argument says Rav Yehonoson
Eibushitz is to convince us that since Hashem wants service of the
heart, the "l'maaseh" the actions are not necessary. "N'um Pesha
LaRasha BiKerev Libi" (36:2) the Yetzer Hara tells us Bikerev Libi,
what is in the heart is all that counts. Knowing this argument, Dovid
tells us "Lamnatzei'ach L'Eved Hashem", victory in this war is to the
person who understands that he is a servant of Hashem and all his
action need to be dedicated to his master's will. To love his master
is not enough.

The Yetzer Hara is all about optical illusion.
He makes light of very black deeds and casts shadows upon real light.
To this says Rav Shamshon Raphael Hirsch, who dedicated his life to
battling the so-called "enlightenment", "BiOrcha Nireh Ohr", only in
your light is there real light (36:10). To follow the "light" of the
world, is to be led down a path of eternal darkness.

Similarly
the Chasam Sofer explains the pasuk (36:8), "Mah Yakar Chasdicha
Elokim" how precious is Your kindness Elokim. Despite the fact that
Elokim is the name referring to Hashem's harsh judgement, nevertheless
we recognize it as pure kindness.

It takes a great magician to fool the audience into confusing opposites. It takes a Dovid HaMelech to set us straight.
]]>Mon, 02 Feb 2009 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim Perek 35: A Body With A Mind Of Its Ownhttp://revach.net/article.php?id=3113
http://revach.net/article.php?id=3113In the tefila of Nishmas Kol Chai we say, "Ilu Finu
Malei Shira Kayam...", if our mouths were filled with song in abundance
like the water of the sea. We then describe the various limbs of our
body as if they were of tremendous proportions and admit that even then
we would not be capable of properly thanking Hashem for the kindness he
bestows upon us. A little further on we say therefore the limbs the
you have given us...will praise you. This seems to be a contradiction.

Dovid
HaMelech tells Hashem that even if he were to wanted to run to do an
aveira, his body is so accustomed to doing Hashem's will, that his legs
would disobey him and run to do good. This may be the answer to our
question. While we cannot thank Hashem enough with the tools we have,
nevertheless our bodies that have been indoctrinated into Avodas Hashem
will by themselves sing out the praise of Hashem.

In Tehilim
(35:10) Dovid HaMelech says, "Kol Atzmosai Tomarna Hashem Mi KaMocha",
my every limb will say, Hashem who is like You. We are all Ma'aminim
Bnei Ma'aminim... in our head. Our job is live and breath our
intellectual belief in Hashem, until our entire body reverberates with
belief and praise for Hashem.
]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim 34: Dovid HaMelech Resorts To Acting Like A Mishugana?http://revach.net/article.php?id=2979
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2979Dovid
HaMelech is on the run and gets caught in Eretz Pilishtim. He is
brought before his mighty enemy King Achish. He knows that he will
probably be killed. To free himself, the Medrash tells us, he start
acting like a crazy person. When Achish sees this bizarre behavior he
frees Dovid, without worry. This is the story behind Tehilim Perek 34,
"L'Dovid BiShanoso Es Ta'amo Lifnei Avimelech".

Two questions
arise. First Dovid is one of the 7 shepherds of Klal Yisroel together
with the Avos, Moshe, Aharon, and Yosef. He is the father of
Moshiach. Is this what he needs to resort to in order to free himself?
Could he not come up with a better tactic? Secondly, why is Achish
referred to as Avimelech?

The LikuteiBasarLikutei
brings the Kozhnitzer Magid who explains as follows. When tzadikim are
in an Eis Tzara, a dangerous bind, they totally attach themselves to
Hashem and become as if they are in a different world. When Dovid was
brought before Achish he was very frightened. He immediately brought
himself to incredibly lofty levels of Ahavas and Yiras Hashem. While
he may have been standing physically before Achish, his entire being
was standing before his father, his king, his Av, his Melech. This
exalted state made his body quake. Seeing this other worldly behavior,
Achish thought the Dovid was mentally unstable and ordered him to be
chased out of his kingdom.

What to us may look like someone has
lost it, may sometimes be a case where he has really found it. Really
finding it sometimes comes from real tzorus, where we are trapped on
all sides with no avenue of escape... except upward to our AviMelech!
]]>Thu, 13 Nov 2008 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim 33: Why Does Hashem Give And Then Take Back?http://revach.net/article.php?id=2880
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2880The pasuk in Tehilim (33:5) tells us that Hashem is "Oheiv Tzedaka U'Mishpat", He loves charity and justice. These seem to be two contradictory ideas.
Charity is the opposite of justice, how can Hashem love both?

The Eitz Yosef in the Otzar HaTefilos explains this with a Mashal (Yalkut Ki Sisa
398) of a King who had a dear friend that owed him money. The
prosecutors were pressuring him to collect the debt so he sent a
someone to his friend's house at night with a sack of money. The next
day he ordered the police to go to his house take the money away from
him.

This is similar to the way Hashem punishes us, his beloved
children, for our aveiros. He first gives us a gift which He then
takes away as a punishment. He appeases the prosecutors in Shamayim
while we are no worse off than we were before Hashem's generous gift.

This
is the meaning of the pasuk, "Oheiv Tzedaka U'Mishpat", Hashem loves to
give charity to us before the judgement enabling to us to be able to
pay for our sins without really suffering a loss.
]]>Thu, 23 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim 32: The Baal Shem Tov and Rav Shamshon Raphael Hirsch: Get It Right And Spare Yourself The Griefhttp://revach.net/article.php?id=2758
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2758

The gemara in Eiruchin (16b) asks, what is considered Yissurim, torment? One of the gemara's
answers is, even if you put your hand in your pocket to take out 3
coins and you only end up with 2. The fact that you need to put your
hand in once again is considered Yissurim from Hashem, and serves as a Kappara. That's all it takes to wipe out some aveiros? I heard once in the name of the Baal Shem Tov that this is only called yissurim with one condition, you realize it was Hashem who caused this to happen. This important Yesod teaches us that Yissurim
is not Hashem's way of getting even with a person. It's Hashem's way
to make you recognize Him. Therefore says the gemara, if a coin eludes
your grasp and that reminds you of Hashem, you need not go any
further. if that doesn't work then Hashem will give you louder and
stronger cues, which will make a greater impression upon you. This
will continue until you finally get it, so the faster the better.

Rav ShamshonRephael Hirsch sees this same message in Tehilim (32:2), "Ashrei Adam Lo Yachshov Hashem Lo Avon, V'EinB'RuchoRimiya",happy is the man to whom Hashem does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
He explains this pasuk to mean as follows. Fortunate is the man that
even if he has done aveiros, Hashem doesn't need to punish him. That
is because he is not under any self delusion. He knows his wrongdoings
and will rectify it before Hashem sends him a painful reminder.

]]>Thu, 11 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700http://revach.net/article.php?id=2522
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2522Dovid HaMelech says “Hashem Al Eivoisha Ki Karasicha”, Hashem I should not be embarrassed that I call you. Why would Dovid HaMelech be embarrassed that he davens to Hashem for all his needs?

Rav Yehonoson Eibushitz answers that a person should be very careful about what he asks from Hashem. You should only ask for things that are “Hechreichim”, important needs. You should not bother Hashem for luxuries (which stymie Avodas Hashem). To this Dovid says, I am not embarrassed in my davening to Hashem because I only ask for things I need.

Resha’im on the other hand always want more from Hashem. The end of the Pasuk says “Resha’im Yidmu L’Shi’ol”. In this context Rav Yehonoson Eibushitz explains, that Resha’im are compared to Shi’ol which is Gehinom. Gehinom, Chazal tell us, is never satisfied and always says Hav Hav (Mishlei 30:15), send more Resha’im to quench its unquenchable thirst. A fitting meeting place for the two of them.
If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.
]]>Thu, 24 Jul 2008 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 30: Rav Shamshon Refoel Hirsch: Shining Like the Keruvimhttp://revach.net/article.php?id=2358
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2358The Perek starts off with Dovid composing a song for the future inauguration of the Bais HaMikdash that will ultimately be built by Shlomo HaMelech. But the pasukim that follow launch into expressions of life's experiences and the salvation and success that Hashem granted him. What is the connection asks Rav Shamshon Refoel Hirsch?

Rav Hirsch compares the Bais HaMikdash to a Bayis Yehudi. It is a place where heaven meets earth, where a Yehudi meets his Creator, right down here on earth. A real marvel! The Bais HaMikdash was a point where Ruchniyos met Gashmiyos. The light of the Menora met the bread of the Shulchan. The Torah lay in an Aron. The sculpted images of the Keruvim were the resting place of the Shechina!

If we believe that a human made of flesh and blood has the ability to connect with Hashem who is Ein Sof, and we create a home worthy of this incomprehensible meeting between man and Hashem, it will happen. Then our own faces will be like the Keruvim reflecting Hashem's radiance resting upon it. Then our life experiences will be different. Our lives will be a continuous song of Yeshua, Hatzala, and Hatzlacha.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.
]]>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 29: The Desert, The Forest, and The Kibbutzhttp://revach.net/article.php?id=2236
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2236Rav Elkana Zoberman and a large group of Jews were dragged from their homes in Lvov by the Russian army and sent into the forest where they were left starving and cold. Reb Elkana managed somehow to send a letter to Rav Moshe Elchonon Alter the Raavad of Lvov Hy”d telling him about their terrible plight. His one consolation he said was that they had some seforim and they were able to learn. This comforted them somewhat although they didn’t even have a piece of bread to eat.

Rav Moshe Elchonon Alter wrote him back saying that this is what Dovid HaMelech meant in perek 29, “Kol Hashem Yachil Midbar”, the desert yearns to hear the voice of Hashem. The world is divided into three parts, civilization, desert, and sea. Only the civilization merits hearing the sounds of people learning torah. The Midbar only wishes it can once again hear the voice of Hashem just like it did in the time of Matan Torah. “Yachil Hashem Midbar Kaddesh”, the desert also yearns to be holy and full of Kedusha and not desolate of the Dvar Hashem. Rav Elkana’s group were greatly encouraged by these beautiful words and continued to bravely fill the forest with Dvar Hashem. (Likutei Basar Likutei)

A friend of mine spent a few months in Eretz Yisroel selling telecom system to Kibbutzim. He told me that when he drove up to non-religious/anti-religious Kibbutzim he literally felt the air crying for some Kedusha. So he would take out a Mishnayos and learn for five minutes before attending to his business. He felt a tremendous rush knowing that a place in Artzeinu HaKedosha received some words of Torah after so many years of abandonment.

At times we may also find ourselves in places that are like a desert devoid of mitzvos and torah. What a zechus to fill the air with the long yearned for words of Torah, Tefila, and Tehilim!

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.
]]>Thu, 15 May 2008 03:00:00 -0700http://revach.net/article.php?id=2182
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2182In this Perek Dovid HaMelech asks Hashem to relieve him of his Tzorus in order that he can focus on quenching his spiritual thirst rather that spending his days fending off his earthly woes.

The Ohel Yaakov relates a Mashal. When Hashem sends the neshama down to earth to occupy a body, the neshama cries as it takes leave of Hashem. Hashem consoles the neshama by telling him that he can always write Him every time he needs something. To this the neshama responds, “and you my dear Father can also remember me and ask about me just in case something happens to me and I cannot write.”

“L’Dovid, Eilecha Hashem Ekra” Dovid says, “Hashem to you I call” as you urged me to do before we parted. “Tzuri Al Techerash” you Hashem can also ask about me and not remain silent. “Pen Techesheh Mimeni”, maybe I will fall silent do to rough circumstances. (Likutei Basar Likutei)

Hashem is always looking over us even if we don’t call him. But call to Hashem anyway. He is waiting to hear from you. He is the only one in the world really interested in hearing all your tzorus... and the only one who can help.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.
]]>Thu, 01 May 2008 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 27: Confidence Is the Way Out!http://revach.net/article.php?id=2054
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2054You must have complete bitachon in Hashem no matter what situation you face. Being afraid is an aveira while bitachon is a great mitzva. When you are in a dangerous situation if you are afraid it will add to your woes as you are committing an aveira and this will not help your cause. If however you are not afraid and have bitachon, this very zechus itself can change your fate for the better. When your Father in Heaven sees that you are placing all your faith only in Him, He will not let down His beloved child.

This is what Dovid HaMelech says in Tehilim (27:3), “Im Tachaneh Olai Machaneh Lo Yirah Leebi”, if the enemy camp will fall on me, my heart will not be afraid. “Im Tokum Olai Milchama B’Zos Ani Botei'ach”, if I will stand on the battlefield with "this" I am confident. The meforshim explain that the “Zos” that gives Dovid confidence to stand in battle is the lack of fear that he just mentioned. The mitzva of lacking of fear will be the zechus that Dovid HaMelech relies upon to save him.

Why not be confident and feel secure if that is the key to ending your troubles?
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]]>Thu, 27 Mar 2008 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 26: On The Prowl For Action?http://revach.net/article.php?id=1969
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1969Do you like challenges? Only a by testing yourself can you stretch your limits. Dovid HaMelech wanted to attain the Madreiga of the Avos. The Gemara says that without Hashem's help we cannot overcome the mighty and powerful Yetzer Hara. Rav Yosef Yaavetz in his classical peirush on Tehilim says that Yaakov was left alone without Hashem's help against the Yetzer Hara, "VaYivaser Yaakov Livado". In this epic battle Yaakov vanquishes the Yetzer Hara and earns the name Yisroel, with the word "Kel" in it signifying his God-like power. Not so Dovid. He is tested at his own behest and he fails.

The lesson is, don't get over ambitious. We have enough challenges in our life. Hashem knows exactly what we can handle. If we pass all of those we'd be very fortunate. Don't seek out glory. Succeed in the tests that you are given. Remember the tefila we say every day. "V'Lo Lidei Nisayon"; let's get by the day without any problems. Because as Dovid HaMelech will tell you, right after Nisayon comes "Lo Lidei Bizayon"; and none of us want to be disgraced.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.

The Maharash Laniado answers that it depends. If we are to compare the Torah and Mitzvos that we have done to the Chesed does for us every second of every day, then Dovid says, please do not judge me "Ki Lo Yitzdak Lifanecha Kol Chai"; no living creature, not even a perfect tzaddik, can claim to repay Hashem for his kindness. However in perek 26 Dovid asks Hashem to please judge him "Ki Ani BiTumi Holachti" in my innocence I have gone. Surely Dovid or any human cannot be perfect but whatever we do, we can do it with our purest intentions. (Likutei Basar Likutei)

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.

]]>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim Perek 25: The Alshich - Are You Looking Where You Are Going?http://revach.net/article.php?id=1869
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1869During the Holocaust a group of Jews were told to jump from one cliff to another. This was the Nazis idea of fun since the most of them could not make it to the other side and fell to their deaths. One feeble tzaddik made it across this great divide to the great surprise of a stronger healthy man who also made it across. The tzaddik explained to the stunned onlooker that if you use your earthly strength to jump your chances are not good but if you look up and hold on to Shamayim then it is not very difficult to successfully make the leap.

When walking through life, most people would suggest keeping your eyes open on what's happening in front of you. This way you can see both the pitfalls and the safe ground and know which route to travel. If you don't keep your eyes on the road you will stumble. Not so, says Dovid HaMelech in Tehilim (25:15) explains the Alshich. "Einai Tamid El Hashem"; I do not need to look where I am headed as my eyes are constantly fixed on Hashem. "Ki Hu Yotzi MeiReshes Ragli"; because only he can keep me from stumbling into life's many traps and not my own sharp eyes.

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Many people have climbed Mount Everest. When they got to the top what did they do? They turned around and went right back down. Why? Why not hang around up there for a while? After all they spent years dreaming about it and months planning this great event. We all know the answer, it is simple. There is nothing to do up there, that's why! Why did they bother? Because it's not about being up there; it's about getting up there. They are proving to the world that they can stand on top, at the summit.

What about Har Hashem? Do we try to climb to the top? If we do climb, what do we do when we get there? Do we stay there? Is our chesed and learning all about proving to the world exactly what we are capable of or is our purpose to get closer to Hashem? The length of our stay on top shows exactly what our true intentions are. Soon enough the applause dies down and our heroics become yesterday's news. Someone else takes the spotlight and all we are left with is left is hard work and no glamour.

Dovid HaMelech says in Tehilim 24 "Mi Yaaleh B'Har Hashem" who will climb the mountain of Hashem? "U'Mi Yakum Bimkom Kodshoi" and who stays on top. Who truly enjoyed being near Hashem and yearns to always bask in his shadow? The answer says Dovid HaMelech is obvious "Niki Kapayim U'Bar Leivav Asher Lo Nasa Lashav Nafshi"; only a person with deep integrity who does not perform Mitzvos to falsely lift his own stature. He will not only climb to the top, he will make these great heights his permanent dwelling.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh this week at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.

When the Satmar Rebbe Rav Moshe Teitlebaum came to Eretz Yisroel he was treated to a Kabolas Panim attended by thousands of people. Seated next to the Gerer Rebbe the Satmar Rebbe said to him, "I was in Auschwitz, a hell on earth, and now I am here receiving this great honor. Believe me they are both "Hevel", nonsense."

This world is a grand illusion. There are no good situations or bad situations if you are a tzaddik. Every moment is just a different kind of Nisayon, Likadesh Shem Shamayim. Each situation stretches you limits testing a different aspect of your spiritual health. Similarly when you go to an ophthalmologist he tests your vision with a bunch of different exercises. There are no good ones or bad ones. They are all just meant to test different aspects of your eyesight.

Dovid HaMelech sings in Tehilim 23 "Hashem Ro'i Lo Echsar", Hashem leads me, I lack nothing. Whether it is "Al Mei Menuchos", on peaceful waters or "B'Gei Tzalmaves" in the valley of death, it makes absolutely no difference. "Ki Ata Imadi", because you are beside me and I am trying be close to you. The goal is the same. It is only the scenery that changes and I am so focused I don't even notice.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh this week at the Kosel please submit the name on the Revach homepage. Please says Perek 23 L'Refuas Choilei Amoi Yisroel.

Lamnatzei'ach Al Ayeles HaShachar"; This famous perek refers to Esther HaMalka. As she is about to risk her life and stand before Achashveirosh uninvited her Ruach HaKodesh leaves her and she cries, "Keili Keili Lama Azavtani"; Hashem, Hashem why have you abandoned me?

"Elokai Ekra Yomam V'lo Saaneh V"Leila V'Lo Dumia Li" we cried by day and you did not answer and by night you were silent. The gemara (Megila 4a) learns from this pasuk that we must read the megila by night and again by day. A possible reason for this is that night symbolizes the darkness of the troubles. During these bleak hours we focus on our only true savior and plead with Hashem to have mercy. However when things seen to "lighten" up and suddenly we see the end of our troubles we have a tendency to forget Hashem very quickly. We no longer really need Him since everything turned out okay anyway.

Dovid HaMelech tells us it is not enough that you daven at night. Daven even during the day since the one who helped you at night is still in control. It would be foolish to forget so fast.

]]>Tue, 15 Jan 2008 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim Perek 21: Dovid Spills The Beanshttp://revach.net/article.php?id=1626
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1626Many seemingly important and famous people have a dirty little secret. Often there is someone in the shadows that actually did the great things that the famous front man received credit for. The little guy in the back usually goes unnoticed as the front man makes sure no one ever knows about this, since it would jeopardize his position.

Not so with Dovid HaMelech. Dovid clearly understands that he has no power whatsoever. His power comes from Hashem above. Really, Dovid has nothing to fear since his secret source of power will not undermine Dovid even if Dovid were to falsely take all the credit. Nevertheless in his humility Dovid is proud to admit he is merely a figurehead as Hashem does all the heroics both on and off the battlefield.

The Malbim says this is the pshat in the Pasuk (21:2), "Hashem B'Azcha Yisma ch Melech"; Hashem, in your strength the King (Dovid) is happy. "MiPishischa Ma Yagel Med"; and even if the whole world knows that it is you that saves me and I myself am very weak I will still be elated."

A Jew prides himself in his inability to make anything happen through his own power. How is business? Chased Hashem? How is the family? Boruch Hashem! For us, the fact that Hashem cares about us and takes care of our every need like a mother cares for a newborn infant, is the proudest thing we can boast.

In this well known Perek we say "Eileh Varechev V'Aileh Basusim Va'Anachnu Bshem Hashem Elokeinu Nazkir", they fight with their horses and chariots and our weapon is calling out Hashem's name. "Heima Karu V'Nafalu, VaAnachnu Kamnu Vanisoidad"; They will bow down and fall and we will stand tall. The simple meaning is that since we rely on Hashem to fight we will stand victorious at the end while they will stumble.

The Likutei Basar Likutei says in the name of the Mikdash Mi'at that this falling and standing has a deeper explanation. A person must show humility before a King. In front of a human king who only recognizes outward appearance one must bow and fall on their face to prove their humility and loyalty. However in front of Hashem who understands what is in the mind of each and every person, outward appearance plays a secondary role to what a person is thinking deep in his heart.

Therefore those who trust in their mighty earthly leader must bow and fall down. We serve only Hashem and to him we humble our hearts. Our physical posture can still be erect. It is our heart that must be humble. No matter what tzara we face, when we humble ourselves and accept the will of Hashem then the Yeshua will come. We need not fall on our faces before mere mortals since they can't bring any salvation.

There are two ways you can come to recognize Hashem in this world. The first is through creation. Looking at the vast universe makes it obvious to all, that there is a creator. Following the weather patterns and the difficulty in predicting them shows not only that he created the world but that he is still running the show and it doesn't happen by route. The light of the day giving way to the blackness of night, the constellations, the seasons, the various climates all pay tribute to an incredible architect and manager above. Nature broadcasts Hashem's presence loud and clear every day. The "Briah" belongs to Hashem.

But there is a better way. The Torah! The Briah is the finished product. The Torah is the reason, the cause, and the source. From the Torah we not only see the "what", we also see the "how" and "why". It tells us the past and the future. Most of all it tells us why we are here and what we need to do about it.

Dovid HaMelech tells us in Perek 19 pasuk 2 , "Hashamayim Misaprim Kvod Kel", the heavens tell us Hashem's glory. But the story is not complete. It leaves room for so many questions. The only place to turn for those answers is the Torah, continues Dovid (Pasuk 8). "Toras Hashem Temima", The Torah is complete. It tells the whole story. "Machkimas Pesi", it wisens up the foolish. "Me'iras Eiynayim", it adds a new dimension to our tunnel vision and narrow mind. In a world of sickness, poverty, cruelty, and suffering there is only one address if you want real answers. The Torah!

]]>Tue, 18 Dec 2007 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim Perek 18 - Seeing Light With The Black of Your Eye?http://revach.net/article.php?id=1413
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1413It's a marvel how Hashem plays with and seems to mock our perception of nature. Take the ability to see with your eyes says the Likutei Basar Likutei. Seeing is all about light. You cannot see in the dark. Yet what is the source of vision in a person's anatomy? The darkest black found dead center in middle of the eye. Here Hashem clearly shows us that all those who believe in "nature" should look to Hashem who can make sight from darkness.

The lesson Hashem is teaching us is that in Hashem's world as opposed to the "natural" world, darkness is not bad, it is what let's you see the light. When a person is suffering and he thinks that the situation is terrible, he should pay attention because through this black he has the opportunity to see the real light.

Dovid HaMelech says in Tehilim (18:29) "Ki Ata Ta'ir Neiri, Hashem Elokai Yagia Choshchi"; because you light my candle, Hashem brighten my darkness. Dark is not dark and light is not light. It all depends if Hashem is holding the candle.

Please say Perek 18 of Tehilim or any Perek for for:

1. Chaya Rivka bas Kayla

2. Nechama Malka bas Gittel

3. Elta Hadass bas Chaya Leah

4. Dena Brendel bat Esther

5. Esther Rivka bas Chava Mindel

If you would like to submit a name for next week's list please write to info@revach.net

Dovid says (17:8) "Shomreini K'Ishon Bas Ayin"; protect me like the black of your eye. The Radak points out that when you look in the black of someone's eye you will see a reflection of yourself and the image of yourself is tiny. The Artscroll Tehilim says in the name of Rav Gifter zt"l, this teaches us that when we look at others we shouldn't judge them negatively. We should look at ourselves through them and see how small we are both visually and spiritually. We should think of our own negative qualities and their positive qualities and see that we don't measure up. (Rhythms of the Heart)

The Baalei Mussar say that if our friend is rich we should think that Hashem made him richer than us because he is more deserving. If the person is poor we should realize that Hashem loves him more because he is in dire straits. No matter who we look at, with the right attitude we can always find a reason to respect them by seeing our own well known shortcomings and how they don't suffer from it. The key to Teshuva as Dovid says is not looking at others but a careful examination and honest assessment of ourselves through the eyes of others.

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]]>Wed, 14 Nov 2007 03:00:00 -0800Tehilim Perek 16: Blind Faith Vs. A Solid Guaranteehttp://revach.net/article.php?id=1298
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1298Two words to describe reliance on another are Bitachon and Chisayon. The difference being that bitachon means relying on someone's word or promise to you. Chisayom means counting on someone doing something for you even he hasn't even said he would. Our level of trust in Hashem must be to the point where we believe that He will fulfill our wishes even though He never said he would. Moreover the pasuk in Tehilim (118) says "Tov LaChasos BaHashem Mivtoach BiNidivim" better to rely on Hashem without His promise than to rely on the promise of a person.

This great level of trust in Hashem is in itself a great Mitzva and a reason why Hashem will help you through your troubles. Thye Sfas Emes says that this is what Dovid means in Tehilim (16:1) "Shomreini Kel" Hashem, even though I am not worthy I merit your protection. Why? "Ki Chosisi Boch" because I am counting on you even though You've never given me any indication that you will help. This unparalleled Emuna is the great mitzva with which I am deserving of salvation.

Please say Perek 16 of Tehilim or any Perek for for:

Refoel Yackov ben Toiba - A 38 year Rebbi who went into cardiac arrest

Frieidl Liba bas Chava and Rachel bas Chava both for shidduchim

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The pasuk in Tehilim says "Mi Yagur B'Ohalecha, Mi Yishkon B'Har Kodshecha"; who will dwell in Your tent and who will reside on Your Holy Mountain? Why the redundant language? The Baal Eretz HaChaim explains that this is not redundant at all. The pasuk is telling us the criteria for someone after he dies to go up to Hashem's holy mountain, olam haba'ah. That criteria is that when he lived in this world he understood that it was only temporary and that one day he would move on.

This is what it means "Mi Yagur B'Ohalecha"; he who lives like a "Ger", who is not a fixture but rather an outsider just passing through. "B'Ohalaecha", in this world which is considered to be like a tent because it is only for a short time. This person will be fortunate to get a good place in the world to come where he will enjoy living with the Shechina forever.

Please say Perek 15 of Tehilim or any Perek for refuah sheleima for:

1. Miriam bas Rivka Rochel

2. Gilad Chaim ben Rachel -12yr old having treatment for cancer

If you would like to submit a name for next week's list please write to info@revach.net

]]>Wed, 31 Oct 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 14: Mosiach's Impact Will Depend On Where You Are When He Arriveshttp://revach.net/article.php?id=1221
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1221

The Chesed L'Avrohom says that whoever is living in Eretz Yisroel when Moshaich comes will immediately enter Gan Eden alive and live like Adam HaRishon before the Cheit. Those living in Chutz La'Aretz will not go into Gan Eden but will experience the pleasures in this world.

Furthermore it is written that when living in Eretz Yisroel we are referred to as "Yisroel" but in Chutz La'Aretz we are called Yaakov. With this the Likutei Basar Lekutei explains the pasuk in Tehilim (14:7) "B'shuv Hashem Shvus Amoi"; In the time of Moshiach when Hashem returns his people, "Yogel Yaakov Yismach Yisroel"; Yaakov, those living in Chutz La'Aretz will have physical pleasure (Yogel) while Yisroel, those living in Eretz Yisroel will go straight to the ruchniyos pleasure which is the full Simcha.

In Perek 9 Dovid thanks Hashem for helping him defeat a mysterious enemy "Laben" who many Mifarshim struggle to identify. The Malbim says he was a mighty warrior King that destroyed many nations and then came to fight Dovid. Dovid defeated Laben and on his way back from the war Laben fell into one of the traps he set for Dovid and died.

Dovid's thank you teaches us how to properly thank Hashem says the Malbim.
1. Eye to the future - We thank Hashem as an investment for the future. We are happy but we want more and use our thankfulness as a means of communicating just that. To this Dovid says in Pasuk 2 "Oideh Hashem B'Chol Libi"; my heart if filled with only thanks and I have no ulterior motive.
2. Only miracles? - We thank Hashem for extraordinary events but forget to thank Him for the more mundane aspects of our life which are no or less miraculous than the supernatural. Therefore Dovid says "Asapra Kol Nifli'oisecha"; I will relate all your wonders not only the spectacular ones.
3. Loving Ourselves - Our thanks is for what Hashem did for us. Dovid thanks Hashem for the Kidush Hashem that his salvation created. "Esmicha V'E'Eltza Buch"; it is in you Hashem that I rejoice.
We should all look into our lives and think about the things we have to be thankful for and just for once give a true Dovid HaMelech like thank you next time we say Modim in Shemoeh Esrei or even when sitting alone during a free moment

Rav Shimshon Refoel Hirsh says that perek 13 describes our darkest hour of despair as a nation. The situation created by world events is so bleak that we think the end has finally come for the Jewish nation. Judaism will finally be relegated to the history books and we will be totally annihilated by our enemies who are in primed to wipe us out. "Ad Ana Tastir Panecha Mimeni" this bitter day that the torah foretells in Devorim (31:18) "V'Anochi Hastir Astri Panai"; the gemara says there is no worse time for the world than when Hashem uttered the horrific words "I will hide my face". We are convinced that Hashem has totally abandoned us to the wolves.

For this Dovid davens, "Habita Aneini Hashem Elokai"; Hashem please at least look at me and show me that you there and it is you who is behind our misery. "Ha'ira Einai"; the fact that you are the one doing this will bring light to my eyes for I know you are just and that you haven't abandoned us.

In any tzora or pain that we face if we understand that it is the hand of Hashem causing us grief it is a tremendous consolation. We can take comfort in the fact that it is for our good and that it will end at some point. However if we think that we are suffering simply because Hashem has left us to the winds of nature and the ways of the world then there is no hope.

Please say Perek 13 of Tehilim or any Perek for refuah sheleima for:

Chana Roize bas Baila (correction from last week)

Miriam bas Rivka

Rory ben Desiree - A Mother's plea for her son to go on the good path

If you would like to submit a name for next week's list please write to info@revach.net

"Saviv Reshaim Yishalachun" (Tehilim 12:9) The Medrash Shochar Tov brings a machlokes tanaim in the interpretation of this pasuk that shows two sides of the same coin. Rebbi Yehuda says, it means in the Olam HaEmes the Tzaddikim go around Gehinom and watch the suffering of the resha'im and smile about the yisurim they themselves had during their lifetime since it absolved them of facing the terrible yisurim in Gehinom after their death. This teaches us that we ought not to complain about any pain and suffering in this world because it is miniscule compared to its equivalent in next world and ultimately we will be very pleased with the tradeoff.

Rav Nechemiah interprets this pasuk in the reverse. The resha'im in Olam Habah get a sneak peek at the pleasures that the tzaddikim are enjoying in Gan Eden and they deeply regret mocking the so called foolishness of the tzaddikim who didn't know how to live the "good life" of this world and subjected themselves to what the resha'im considered a pathetic life, wasting their time chasing mitzvos.

Either way the moral is obvious. Don't take this world too seriously. Its only value is where it will bring you in the world to come... and to get something good you need to pay the price now.

Please say Perek 12 of Tehilim or any Perek for refuah sheleima for:

Chana Roize bas Leah - Young woman with Machala

Refael Zev ben Miriam - 21 /22 yr old with cancer, has 2 kids. Tried all treatment and is very desperately ill

Batya Shira bat Aliza Chasya - 3 yr old very badly burnt

Maria bat Shulamit - 11 yr old with cancer

Sara bas Neshama

Shlomo Yaacov ben Sara

Sara bas Pesha

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]]>Mon, 08 Oct 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 11: Is Hashem On Earth or Is He Hiding In Heaven?http://revach.net/article.php?id=1035
http://revach.net/article.php?id=1035

How can it be that the resha'im torment tzaddikim and get away with it? "Ki Hashason Yei'hareisun" as the wicked destroy the foundation of the earth which is the Tzaddik, "Tzaddik Ma Pa'al", Hashem who is completely righteous, why does he stand by idly?

Where is Hashem? "Hashem B'Heichal Kodshoy"; sometimes we feel the hashgacha of Hashem and it is so tangible. We know that it was the hand of Hashem that orchestrated the turn of event in our favor. Other times "Hashem Bashamyim Kisoy" when things don't go as planned it seems Hashem is not watching us and He is in Shamayim busy with Heavenly matters. The world seems left in chaos with the wicked running amuck, free to do as they wish, unimpeded.

"Hashem Tzaddik Yivchan"; this is all just a test to see who serves Hashem out of fear or for the reward. Those people cannot withstand Hashem's test. With resha'im ruling and thriving they will join their side because after all their only goal is to further their own good. Not so the tzaddik who is loyal and not looking for the reward. He serves Hashem because that is what he is obligated to do. It makes absolutely no difference how he or others are faring in this world. He stands on one side only.

Please say Perek 11 of Tehilim or any Perek for refuah sheleima for:

1. Yehoshuah ben Tryla Sarah - A relapse brain cancer came. Undergoing treatment with an experimental drug as a last resort to extend his life.
2. Sura bat Leah - Stopping Chemo for an evaluation of progress.
3. Moshe Bas Rachel - A frum man suffering from MS being sentenced for a white collar crime. He faces the possibility of a long sentence and needs your tefilos.

If you would like to submit a name for next week's list please write to info@revach.net

The Medrash Shochar Tov tells a story of a minister who was traveling on the road when nightfall came. A watchman saw him and offered him to come sleep in his hut to protect himself from wild animals. The minister said that it is not fitting for a minister to sleep in a hut. In the black of the night the minister got scared and knocked on the door of the hut asking to be let in. The watchman answered it is not fitting for a watchman to open the hut door in middle of the night.

Concludes the Medrash that Hashem says to Klal Yisroel I cried to you before the churban "Shuvu Banim Shovivim"; return to me my wayward children. But we didn't listen. Hashem then left the Bais HaMikdash and it was invaded by the enemy. At that point we turn to Hashem and cried (10:1) "Lama Hashem Ta'amod B'Rachok Ta'alim Li'etos Batzara"; Why do you Hashem stand far away, hiding yourself in times of trouble? Hashem answers when I called you weren't interested and now suddenly you expect to find me?

A Jew should seek and Hashem and call out for him at all times. Then we will be guaranteed to be there when Hashem asks for us and not miss the boat.

If you would like to submit a name for next week's list please write to info@revach.net

]]>Mon, 27 Aug 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 122: Dovid & Moshe - The Greater Good Even At My Expensehttp://revach.net/article.php?id=2631
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2631Dovid HaMelech says (Tehilim 122:2) "Samachti B'Omrim Li Bais Hashem Neileich"; I am happy when they tell me let's go to the House of Hashem. This seems odd since Dovid was not zocheh to build the Bias HaMikdash and it was only built after his death by Shlomo.

I heard the following beautiful vort this morning at a HaKomas Matzeivah. Dovid had many enemies who relished his downfall. The gemara Shabbos (30) says they enjoyed taunting him that Hashem has rejected him because of the aveira of Bas Sheva. They would tell him "Bais Hashem Neileich", let's go to the Bais HaMikdash, implying that he is not worthy to build it. What was Dovid's response? Yes, indeed I wish and pray that we go. "Samachti", Dovid was happy with the taunting and only wished it would come true.

Similarly Moshe Rabbeinu cries to Hashem (Devarim 1:9) "Lo Uchal Livadi Si'eis Eschem", I cannot carry the nation alone. It has grown too numerous for me to deal with. Does he want a smaller nation? No! He gives them a Bracha "Yosef Aleichem Kachem Elef Pe'amim", may Hashem increase you by a thousand fold!

From here we learn that we should all daven for the greater good, the good of Hashem, the good of Am Yisroel. Even if it is contrary to our personal needs.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.
]]>Tue, 14 Aug 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 8: A Watch The Size Of A Lentil Beanhttp://revach.net/article.php?id=781
http://revach.net/article.php?id=781

The philosophers find it hard to believe that man plays a central role in the universe. The vast heavens contain stars that make the sun pale in comparison. Our planet is far from the biggest even in our solar system. Even on earth man is but a spec compared to the great seas and on land we are far outnumbered by many other species.

Dovid HaMelech answers (8:2) , "Hashem Adoineinu Ma Adir Shimcha B'chol Ha'aretz" how great is your name on the earth. The Malbim explains that although vast and bright, the universe works on a few basic principles. The complexities of the earth are far greater. So much more intricate are the workings of growing plants and even greater with living animals. The most complex creation is the human which aside from the intricate details of his body can also speak and has the mental capacity to act on its own volition. Not only is Hashem's chochma seen in its full glory in a human being but the fact that is so small in comparison to the universe only enhances the already amazing creation. Surely a watch made of many gears the move in sync is more impressive if it the size of a lentil says the Malbim.

When the class bully picks on you, you're in big trouble. When the best kid in the whole school starts up with you, you don't stand a chance... unless of course you have connections with the principal. In Perek 7 Dovid pleads to Hashem to save him from Shaul; Shaul the "Bechir Hashem" the chosen one of Hashem. Shaul was the perfect human being aside from his one mistake that cost him his kingdom. Dovid in many ways was not on the same level as Shaul. Dovid's greatness was not his perfection it was his negating himself totally in shadow of Hashem. His greatness was not even obvious to his own brothers let alone the nation. Moreover Dovid does have the appearance of someone who is trying to usurp power from the great Shaul.

Who is going to take his side... if not Hashem. Only Hashem knows that he is the new anointed one. Only Hashem knows that he has done nothing on his own and nothing for his own ego. Only Hashem can save him. "Hashem Bicha Chisisi"; Hashem in you I place my trust. "Im Yesh Avel BiChapoy, Im Gomalti Sholmi Ra"; if there is guilt on my hands, if I repaid friendship with evil. "Shofteini Hashem BiTzidki"; judge me Hashem according to my righteousness. Only Hashem can save Dovid and only Hashem can pass real judgment on people. We should never try to be judge or jury on our fellow man until we can peer into his soul and know all his secret intentions.

After the incident with Basheva, Dovid HaMelech fell seriously ill for a prolonged period of time. In Perek 6 the Malbim says, the first seven pasukim Dovid cries for a recovery from his illness. The rest of the pasukim Dovid cries about his enemies who inflict emotional pain on his already severe physical wounds.

Pasuk 7 says "Yogati B'Anchosi... B'Dimosi Arsi Amseh"; I am tired from my sighing... my bed is drenched with my tears. The Medrash Shochar Tov says this pasuk refers to the pathetic story of the great tanna Rabbi Zechariah ben Hakatzav. Rabbi Zechariah ben Hakatzav was a Kohen who swore by the Bais HaMikdash that his wife was with him the entire time that the city was occupied by foreign troops and she was not raped. However since the Halacha is that a person cannot testify about himself, and since this testimony affects him personally, he is not believed. Since he was a Kohen his wife was forbidden to him and for the rest of their lives they lived in separate abodes in the same courtyard.

This was excruciatingly painful halacha to abide by especially since he knew that the halacha in this case did not reflect reality. Nevertheless he abided by the psak of the Chachomim. Crying to Hashem all night is okay even though there is no recourse. Hashem's door is always opened to tears whether we can be helped or not.

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]]>Mon, 30 Jul 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim: Who Do We Cry For When We Fail?http://revach.net/article.php?id=574
http://revach.net/article.php?id=574

There is a famine in Eretz Yisroel. Consensus among the masses is that Dovid is to blame and that this is his punishment for the Aveira of taking BasSheva. In Perek 4 Dovid davens that Hashem should clear his name. Subsequently it is revealed to all that the reason for the famine is because Shaul's killed the Givonim.Perek 5 gives insight into the feelings and intentions that make for a heartfelt davening.

A true King is a conduit between the people and Hashem. The King is Hashem's living emmisary to the people. He does not have power for his own benefit he is merely empowered by his mission. We see this from Dovid who when asking to have his name cleared says (5:3) "Hakshiva L'Kol Shavi Malki Veilokai Ki Eilecha Espalal"; "Listen to my cries My King and My God because I cry to you". The words Ki Elilecha Espalal can also be read because I cry for you. Dovid is not crying about his own embarrassment and suffering. He is crying because he is Hashem's anointed representative in this world. As such the rumors of his failings sully the reputation of Hashem.

As members of Am Yisroel, the chosen nation, we are all Hashems' representative. The greatest consequence of our failings is not the repercussions that we suffer as individuals. The only consequence that should disturb us is that we let down Hashem and that we have besmirched His Name.

In Perek 3 Dovid is on the run from his son Avshalom. This is a punishment for Dovid's mis-timed relationship with Bas Sheva. His enemies Do'eg and Achitofel are enjoying the fruit of their notorious labor while Dovid is singing to Hashem.

The Gemara in Brachos (7b) asks why does it say Mizmor L'Dovid; Dovid sings. It should say Kinah L'Dovid, he laments his fate. The gemara answers (explanation of the Ben Yeho'ada) that Dovid worried that the punishment he will receive for the aveira of Bas Sheva may be death. When he saw that Hashem sent Avshalom his son to rebel against him hunt him down he reasoned that Hashem only decreed that he would go into galus and not be killed. Otherwise Hashem would have sent a more cruel and ruthless enemy than his son his own flesh and blood.

From here we can learn that even in your bleakest hour it is possible to find a ray of light. Not just to hang your hope on but to go as far as confidently singing Shira to Hashem in the knowledge that he will protect you.

f you would like to submit a name for next week's list please write to info@revach.net

]]>Mon, 09 Jul 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim: An Offer You Can't Refusehttp://revach.net/article.php?id=493
http://revach.net/article.php?id=493Perek 2 talks about the futility of the ideological war which the nations fight against Hashem and their refusal to accept Hashem's rule as the purpose in this world. A central target of their battle is Dovid HaMelech and his descendant Moshiach whose job it is to infuse the world with the spirit of Hashem.

Dovid HaMelech in Pasuk 12 seeks to correct a fundamental misconception people make. When it comes to Mitzvos Aseh we some time treat them as optional. These include learning torah, doing chesed, kibbus av v'eim etc. We mistakenly believe that they are opportunities to earn "extra credit" yet if we want we can pass on it and wait for a better one.

Not so explains the Mikdash Me'at (see Likutei Basar Likutei). Although the general rule is that we are not usually punished in this world for sitting idly and letting mitzvah opportunities pass, in times of Hashem's anger we will punished for those as well. Just like every temptation sent our way is a test from Hashem to see if we can resist, so to every opportunity to perform a mitzvah that presents itself before us is an offer from Hashem "that we cannot refuse."

"Nashku Bar Pen Ye'enaf"; arm yourself with mitzvos performed outwardly (positive commandments) for maybe Hashem will bring anger to the world, and then punishment will be administered for all missed opportunities.

David HaMelech wrote Tehilim to sing the praises of Hashem. The word Tehilim according to the Malbim comes from Tehilos; Praises. The Vilna Gaon says that the first few words of Tehilim encompass the entire sefer. Why then asks Rav Shimshon Pincus does it start with Ashrei HaIsh.

He explains that Ashrei means the greatness, the worthiness. Describing the greatness of an artist is not possible in words. To say his work is beautiful, magnificent, fantastic, don't cut it. The best way to show his greatness is through his work. Dovid HaMelech opens Tehilim with the words that show Hashem's true greatness, Ashrei HaIsh. Come look at a Tzaddik, the entire reason for creation, and then you can truly appreciate Hashem, the master artist, through his creation.

]]>Mon, 25 Jun 2007 03:00:00 -0700Tehilim Perek 147: Silver Lining? The Whole Cloud is Full of Light!http://revach.net/article.php?id=2085
http://revach.net/article.php?id=2085Have you ever taken off on a plane on a bleak and rainy day? It’s amazing. It is dark and dreary and you think the world is closing in on you. As soon as the plane starts gaining altitude you break through the clouds and see a glorious blue sky full of bright sunshine.

All the good in the world comes from Hashem through the Heavens above. But we as humans, no matter how much we strain our eyes, we cannot see this tremendous good. What is considered goodness and bright light in Shamayim does not translate well to our human eyes. We see clouds even if it is sunny. We yearn to understand the ways of Hashem but cannot figure it out. Very often the best things Hashem does for us appear very bad.

Why does Hashem do this? In this world growth comes primarily from rain. The best people have grown from a heavy dose of black clouds. Constant bright sunshine doesn’t produce good fruit. But the truth is that if we were able soar to the world above and understand how things work we’d break through our personal clouds and see that this rain is the light.

“HaMichaseh Shamayim B’Avim”; He covers the bright skies with seemingly dark clouds. “HaMaichim LaAretz Matar”, He is preparing rain for the world. HaMatzmiach Harim Chatzir”, it makes the grass grow on the mountains.

If you would like Tehilim to be said for a Choleh at the Kosel please submit the name on our homepage.
]]>Tue, 03 Apr 2007 03:00:00 -0700